Madrid/Paris: Spain and France have announced ace tennis player Novak Djokovic would be allowed to play in the upcoming tennis tournaments only if he is fully vaccinated against Covid-19.
This decision was taken after the visa of Djokovic, who had gone to Australia for Australian Open, was cancelled due to violation of Covid norms.
Ahead of the next grand slam, the French Open, CNN quoted France's Sports Ministry as saying on Monday that all professional athletes who wish to compete in France must be vaccinated against Covid-19.
The French Open will be held between May 22 and June 5.
France's vaccine pass law, approved by the parliament on Sunday, mandates that people will have to get a vaccine certificate to enter public places such as restaurants, cafes and sports arenas.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said the ace tennis player, who holds 21st Grand Slam title, would have to comply with Spain's Covid rules to be able to compete in the Madrid Open that will be held in late April.
While lauding Australia for deporting Djokovic, PM Sanchez said he has "total respect for the decision of the Australian government."
Meanwhile, the Serbian Olympic Committee and Prime Minister Ana Brnabic have slammed Australia's "scandalous decision" after the men's World No 1 tennis player's visa was cancelled for violation of Covid rules. (UNI)